Mobile Monday (MoMo) Manila Holds First Meetup

The first (of monthly) Mobile Monday – MoMo Manila events was held recently at the BBDO Guererro / Proximity Offices in Makati. In attendance were some of the most respected mobile dignitaries from Globe & Smart, as well as independent consultants, and media moguls.

Mr. Manolo Almagro, International Consultant For Digital Channels

First up was Mr. Manolo Almagro, international consultant for various digital channels, who discussed the growth and the future of mobile innovations through M-Commerce and QSR’s (Quick Service Restaurants). His examples include some of the largest companies that have implemented their own delivery systems through mobile applications and web ordering and how it has grown through the years.

Next was Mr. Gio Bacareza, who talked about the growing trend of mobile internet use here in the Philippines. Chief of which was used for social aspects as we begin to become more social with our devices and mobile internet. He also discussed the needed pillars to build the future of mobile experiences, which include fast networks, powerful devices, and affordable plans. As the head of Broadband and Data Services for SMART Communications, we hope he can help us achieve that third pillar.

Mr. Matt Briant, Sales Director, Out There Media – Asia Pacific

Our final speaker was Mr. Matt Briant, Sales Director for Out There Media – Asia Pacific region. He talked about the different ads and media that you can use to capitalize on the boom of smartphones and mobile internet use.

Mr. Christian Besler, Senior Adviser, Globe Telecom, Inc.

Afterwards, a panel was opened for questions, which also included Mr. Christian Besler – Senior Adviser for Globe Telecom, Inc. The questions that resulted included some technologies including NFC, payment schemes and such. When it came down to more controversial topics, yours truly felt compelled to ask about the state of Data Capping here in the Philippines. Mr. Besler and Mr. Bacareza aptly supplied us with their answers which gave us a better view of the stance for data cap limitations. They also mentioned that they will be working on improving these services so here’s hoping that one day these limitations can be lifted – or at least be more lenient.

Throughout the event, there were free-flowing drinks and large 32” pizzas for everybody to enjoy. There was more than enough for the whole crowd and we must say this in itself is quite a success. We look forward to attending more Mobile Monday events like these, and learn more about the local mobile market in the process. If you’re interested, be sure to check out their website, www.mobilemonday.net, and MoMo Manila’s Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/MoMoManila .